Osage Nation Battles Wind Farm Group

PAWHUSKA, Okla. (AP) — Construction on a wind farm in Osage County has been temporarily set back.

The Tulsa World reports that the Osage Nation is arguing that the farm could kill eagles that nest nearby. Eagles are an important bird to the Osage culture.

Wind Capitol Group, a St. Louis-based energy organization, says construction of the 94 turbines will begin by the end of this year. Wind Capitol Group officials previously said they hoped to begin construction this summer.

The group says it is working closely with local officials on required authorizations and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on a voluntary eagle take permit. The permit would allow for up to three eagles to be killed each year by turbines with no penalty to the wind farm owners.